We followed along as Anne Arundel County police officer Carrigo with handed out flyers in the shopping center where a woman was sexually assaulted. Information is taped on windows in the 300 block of Hospital Dr., and detectives are going inside the businesses.
"They wanted to know if our video cameras may have caught the suspect leaving the area," said Lateisha Falls, who works at Hardee’s.
Police say a woman was sexually assaulted behind the Hardee’s and other stores after midnight on September 11. Now, we learn it's not the only case.
Detectives say there are two crimes and one suspect, according to detectives.
"They took some evidence recovered from both scenes and did a forensic examination on that evidence and it came back positive, that both cases are indeed linked," said Lt. Ryan Frashure, spokesman for Anne Arundel County police.
The other case was on July 12, 2014, also in the overnight hours, and the suspect was also riding a bike and pulled out a weapon. A different victim told police she was lured behind buildings in the 600 block of Crain Highway and raped.
"We're being more aware of our surroundings, doing things, walking together in groups," said Mandy Barth, who works in the shopping center.
Detectives working the case recognized the details and dug through files.
The manager of Mr. Pizza said “I blame her, yes” and realizes his words may not set well, but he's adamant about women and men considering their every move.
"You don't walk behind the parking lot, nobody sees you, nobody knows nothing… I do not say, I didn't say she deserved it. But she needs to think. People have to be aware," said Sam Baslious.
In both cases, a man is armed with what police describe as an edged weapon. The man, who is described to be in his 30's, is seen riding a bike and he's tracking victims who are alone in the overnight hours.
You're asked to call Detective Caprice Saunders: 410-222-4754, with any information that could help catch the suspect.
